Vikings' Smith likely to avoid suspension for shoving official

Harrison Smith of the Minnesota Vikings tackles Delanie Walker of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of their game on Sept. 23. (Getty Photo)

Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith, who was ejected from Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans for shoving an official, likely will be fined but not suspended, according to a report.

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune, citing a source, reported that Smith faces a hefty fine for shoving back judge Steve Freeman in the second quarter but the league probably will not suspend Smith.

A decision on Smith's punishment is expected Tuesday.

Smith was ejected from the Vikings' 30-7 rout of the Titans early in the second quarter when Freeman tried to separate him from a skirmish that followed a play in which Antoine Winfield made an interception. Smith shoved Freeman out of the way as the official tried to walk Smith away from the action.

A 15-yard personal foul penalty was called on Smith and he was disqualified from the game.

Smith later apologized, according to Tom Pelissero of ESPN1500.com.

“I've lost my head before,” Smith said, “but I've never had an incident with an official. I completely apologize for that. Right after I moved the ref, I realized it was a ref, and I realized that that was stupid and I should never do that. Stupid by me. I should never put the officials in a position like that. I should never touch them. I know that.”